London: Christmas Party Dinner Cruise

Experience London’s Festive Charm on a Christmas Dinner Cruise

The London: Christmas Party Dinner Cruise offers a festive way to enjoy the city’s stunning skyline and iconic landmarks during the holiday season. Priced at $127.96 per person for a 4-hour cruise, this experience combines a traditional 3-course meal, a welcome glass of sparkling wine, and dancing to lively Christmas tunes. The cruise departs from Tower Pier and sails past landmarks like the Tower of London, London Eye, and Tower Bridge, all beautifully illuminated at night.

While the voyage promises a festive atmosphere with dinner and dancing, it’s important to note that the overall rating is 3.9 out of 5 based on 13 reviews. Some guests appreciate the stunning views and friendly bar service, but others have expressed disappointment in the food quality and organization. This cruise suits those seeking a lively, scenic holiday celebration, especially if they enjoy a good view and a dance floor, but it may fall short for those prioritizing gourmet dining or a more polished experience.

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Key Points

• 4-hour festive cruise along the River Thames from Tower Pier.
• Includes welcome sparkling wine, a 3-course traditional Christmas dinner, and half a bottle of wine per person.
• Iconic landmarks like Tower of London, London Eye, and Tower Bridge are featured along the route.
• The evening features dancing with a DJ playing Christmas hits and contemporary tracks.
• Seating is at tables for 10, with less than 10 guests sharing tables, creating a lively and social atmosphere.
• Not suitable for children under 18 and requires smart-casual or festive dress.

Starting Point at Tower Pier and Boarding Details

The tour begins at Tower Millennium Pier, located on Lower Thames Street. Staff members will be present to direct guests to the correct boarding area. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 20 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making transportation arrangements straightforward.

The cruise lasts four hours, with exact start times varying based on availability. It’s a good idea to check the schedule in advance, especially during the busy holiday period.

What’s Included in the Christmas Dinner Cruise

Guests receive a welcome glass of sparkling wine upon boarding, setting a festive tone from the start. The 3-course meal features a salmon starter, a roast turkey main, and a chocolate dessert, all served with tea or coffee at the end. A half-bottle of wine accompanies the meal, but the onboard bar offers additional drinks for those who want to keep sipping throughout the night.

The entertainment is provided by a DJ, who plays a mix of Christmas classics and contemporary tunes to keep the dance floor busy. The lively music selection aims to create a joyful, celebratory mood, perfect for those wanting to dance away into the holiday night.

Navigating the Route and Sightseeing Highlights

The boat departs from Tower Pier, heading towards Canary Wharf. As the cruise sails along, guests enjoy spectacular views of London’s illuminated landmarks. The Tower of London, London Eye, The Shard, and Tower Bridge are all visible from the deck, providing excellent photo opportunities. The lighting and cityscape create a festive backdrop that enhances the holiday spirit.

While enjoying the views, guests can pose for photos with friends or family, making this a memorable way to celebrate Christmas. The route offers a perfect balance of sightseeing and relaxation, with plenty of time to take in the scenery and enjoy the holiday atmosphere.

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Dining Experience and Food Quality

The 3-course festive meal is designed to be traditional and comforting. The starter features salmon, followed by a roast turkey main course, and concludes with chocolate dessert. Dinner is served with a half-bottle of wine per person, adding to the festive feel.

However, some reviews indicate that food quality may vary. One guest notes that the main course was cold and lacked clarity, and the dessert was acceptable. Plus, the service around food appears inconsistent, with some guests experiencing strange responses when requesting coffee and the coffee served in paper cups. This suggests that while the menu is traditional, the execution might not meet high culinary standards.

Dancing and Entertainment on Board

After dinner, the dance floor opens with a DJ playing a selection of Christmas hits and modern tracks. The music aims to reflect the festive mood, encouraging guests to dance the night away. The dancing scene can be lively, especially with tables of 10 arranged to facilitate a social, party atmosphere.

Some reviews mention that the music selection might include unexpected elements, like a group of Turkish ladies claiming the music, leading to an hour of Turkish disco. While this indicates some diversity in entertainment, it may not align with everyone’s expectations for a traditional Christmas party.

Seating Arrangements and Atmosphere

Guests are seated at tables for 10, which are close together. For bookings of fewer than 10, guests are shared with other groups, creating a communal and festive environment. The venue’s decor is described as neatly decorated, contributing to a celebratory holiday ambiance.

The staff is reportedly not highly visible, and some mention that they mainly talk amongst themselves, which can detract from the overall service experience. Still, the lively atmosphere and social seating make this cruise suitable for those looking for a holiday party vibe rather than a formal dining experience.

Practical Tips and Considerations

The cruise requires smart-casual or festive attire, so guests should dress appropriately for the occasion. The meeting point at Tower Pier is easy to find, with staff on-site to guide you to the right boarding area. Arriving 20 minutes early helps ensure a smooth start.

Since the activity is not suitable for guests under 18, families should plan accordingly. The full refund policy allows cancellation up to 3 days in advance, offering flexibility in case of scheduling conflicts or changes in plans.

Pros and Cons of the London Christmas Dinner Cruise

The main advantages include the spectacular views of London’s illuminated landmarks, the festive atmosphere filled with music and dancing, and the included drinks and dinner that make for a lively holiday celebration. The price offers a reasonable way to enjoy a holiday cruise without an overly long time commitment.

On the downside, the food quality has received mixed reviews, with some describing it as cold or lacking flavor. The service quality may also be inconsistent, and the entertainment can include unexpected surprises, like Turkish disco, which might not appeal to everyone.

This cruise is best suited for those who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere and are looking to combine sightseeing with holiday festivities. It may not be ideal for food connoisseurs or those seeking a more formal or serene experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Christmas Cruise in London?

This tour is perfect for groups of friends or families who want to celebrate Christmas with dinner and dancing alongside stunning city views. The casual, party-like environment makes it a fun choice for those looking to get into the festive spirit.

However, guests should manage expectations regarding the food and service, as some reviews highlight disappointments in these areas. It’s a good option for those wanting a lively night out, but less so for guests prioritizing gourmet dining or a quiet, elegant setting.

Final Thoughts on the London Christmas Dinner Cruise

The London: Christmas Party Dinner Cruise offers a festive and scenic way to celebrate the holiday season. The route past landmark-lit silhouettes, combined with dinner and dancing, creates a joyful holiday atmosphere. The included drinks and lively entertainment make it a spirited night out, especially for those seeking a social, party environment.

Despite some mixed reviews regarding food and service, the spectacular views and festive mood make this cruise a worthwhile option for holiday revelers. It’s a relaxed, informal celebration that captures the spirit of Christmas in London, perfect for creating cheerful memories with friends or family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a dress code for the Christmas dinner cruise?
Yes, guests are expected to wear smart-casual or festive clothing to match the holiday spirit.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise duration is 4 hours. Exact starting times depend on availability, so it’s best to check in advance.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The tour begins at Tower Millennium Pier, located on Lower Thames Street. Arrive 20 minutes early for boarding.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the 4-hour cruise, a welcome glass of sparkling wine, a 3-course meal with tea/coffee, half a bottle of wine, and dancing with a DJ.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 18 years are not permitted on this cruise.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 3 days in advance.

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